Dendrolycopodium, Genus, dendroideum, Species,
- Genus & species
prickly tree-clubmoss
Northern North America and northeastern Asia
Overview
Dendrolycopodium dendroideum is an evergreen clubmoss, a spore-bearing relative of ferns, that grows as a small, tree-like shoot 4-12 inches (10-30 cm) tall. Upright stems rise from a horizontal rhizome that runs along or just beneath the soil surface, branching repeatedly near the top into a flat-topped, miniature conifer form. The needle-like leaves, called microphylls, are about 0.2-0.3 inch (4-7 mm) long, stiff, and arranged in many ranks, giving the shoot a bristly, prickly texture. The plant reproduces by spores rather than seeds or flowers, producing them in narrow yellowish cones (strobili) held singly at the stem tips in late summer and fall. Spores ripen and disperse on the wind, while the rhizome spreads the colony outward over years. D. dendroideum grows in cool, moist, acidic woodland soils across northern forests, often under conifers or birch. It is slow to establish and difficult to transplant because of its dependence on soil fungi, which limits its use in cultivation. Colonies persist for decades where conditions stay cool and undisturbed.
Native Range
Dendrolycopodium dendroideum is native to northern North America and northeastern Asia, ranging across boreal and temperate forests of Canada, the northern United States, and the Appalachian Mountains. It grows in acidic, moist conifer and mixed woodland.Suggested Uses
Dendrolycopodium dendroideum is grown chiefly in native woodland and shade gardens that mimic its forest habitat. Its evergreen, conifer-like shoots add winter structure at ground level among ferns and mosses. Historically the spores were collected as lycopodium powder for flash powder and pharmacy.How to Identify
Appearance
Size & Dimensions
Height4" - 1'
Width/Spread6" - 1'
Bloom Information
This clubmoss does not flower; it reproduces by spores. Narrow yellowish cones (strobili) form at the shoot tips in late summer through fall, roughly August to October. Spores ripen and release on dry, breezy days.
Detailed Descriptions
Foliage Description
greenGrowing Conditions
Sun Requirements
Tolerates up to 4 hours of direct sunlight daily
• Full Sun: 6+ hours of direct sunlight
• Partial Shade: 3-6 hours of direct sunlight
• Full Shade: Less than 3 hours of direct sunlight
